How pityriasis versicolor is treated

Pityriasis versicolor can be treated with antifungal medicines . These are available as shampoos, creams and tablets.

Antifungal shampoos

Antifungal shampoos(such as ketoconazole or selenium sulphide shampoo) are often the first treatment recommended for pityriasis versicolor. These are available to buy over the counterfrom pharmacies, or your GP can prescribe them.

In most cases, these shampoosneed to be applied to the affected areas of skin and left for 5 to 10 minutes before being rinsed off. This usuallyneeds to be repeated every day for 5 to 7 days.

You may experience some skin irritation or a burning sensation when using these shampoos, particularly selenium sulphide. It may be helpful to dilute the shampoo with water before applying it. Some people also find the odour of selenium sulphide shampoo unpleasant.

Antifungal creams and tablets

If only small areas of skin are affected, your GP may prescribe an antifungal cream. These creams usually need to be applied to the affected area of skin once or twice a day for several weeks. Some people experience a burning sensation when they use these antifungal creams, but this is uncommon.

If a large area of skin is affected, or other treatments havent helped, you may be prescribed antifungal tablets. These usually need to be taken oncea dayfor one to four weeks. Side effects of these tablets are uncommon, although some people experience problems such as rashes, feeling sick and abdominal (tummy) pain while taking them.

Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 21 Dec 2018

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